A Marine Corps veteran and retired firefighter from Illinois has been hospitalized for over a year due to permanent brain injuries, which are allegedly linked to the consumption of raw oysters.
According to a lawsuit obtained by ABC 7 Chicago, 44-year-old Joe Belgio reportedly experienced cardiac arrest, entered a prolonged coma, and sustained permanent brain damage after consuming contaminated oysters at Gibsons Steakhouse & Bar in Oak Brook, about 15 miles from downtown Chicago, on June 30, 2025.
His fiancée, Melanie Stayer, recounted that the couple was celebrating with family when Belgio fell seriously ill after eating the oysters.
“It was a casual day with a man who simply wanted to enjoy life with his family, but things changed so quickly,” Stayer told the outlet, noting that their five-month-old daughter, Carmela, had recently been born.
Three days after consuming the oysters, Belgio suffered cardiac arrest and lost consciousness and oxygen for at least eight minutes, as reported by his lawyer, Scott O’Sullivan.
O’Sullivan added that Belgio was resuscitated by the Cicero Fire Department, where he had previously served, before being taken to the hospital.
Doctors screened Belgio for bacteria and discovered several pathogens in his system, his attorney stated.
The lawsuit claims Belgio contracted two harmful bacteria from the oysters: Enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) and Plesiomonas shigelloides, as reported by CBS News.
After falling ill, Belgio spent months in a coma and has since been confined to a hospital bed, requiring constant care.
“He is likely bedridden for the rest of his life,” O’Sullivan said. “He is severely brain damaged, with minimal cognitive function, and will need lifelong care.”
Gibsons responded to ABC 7 Chicago by stating that there have been no other reported cases of illness.
“Based on the facts and our internal investigation, there is no evidence suggesting our establishment caused his health condition. We believe a fair and thorough legal process will confirm this,” a spokesperson for the steakhouse stated.
Additionally, two other seafood suppliers, Supreme Lobster and Seafood Company, are named in the lawsuit, according to ABC 7 Chicago.
A GoFundMe page was established to assist Belgio and his family with medical expenses, portraying him as a devoted father, Little League coach, and “a man dedicated to service.”
“An ex-Marine and firefighter committed to protecting others and serving his country,” the page notes.
“He completed a brave tour of duty in Iraq, showing unwavering loyalty and heart at every step. Joe has always been the first to offer help when needed.”
Since its launch on July 8, 2025, the page has raised over $85,000.
Belgio’s medical expenses have already exceeded $1 million, according to CBS News.
